The Seahawks men's basketball team fell short against Southeastern 71-65 on Saturday afternoon at home. Northwood falls to 14-9 overall and 6-6 in Sun Conference play.

The Fire started quick gaining an early 21-6 lead when Ian Umpierre converted on two free throws starting an 8-2 run capped by a Julian Smith basket making it 26-16 with 5:55 to go. With the score 31-19, Chris Solomon hit a three, sparking an 8-2 run capped by a Fred Mattison layup getting to within a possession at 33-30. However, Southeastern hit a jumper before the half taking a 35-30 lead into intermission.

Northwood started the half on a 17-5 tear retaking a 47-40 advantage with 14:32 to go in regulation. Southeastern came right back getting to within 49-47 when Smith hit a jumper starting a 7-2 push capped by an Andrija Sarenac three pointer for a 56-49 lead at the 9:50 mark. Again, the Fire rallied regaining a 61-60 lead with 5:33 to go setting up a back and forth ending.

The Seahawks and Fire exchanged lead changes over the next three minutes with Northwood taking their final lead of the game at 64-63 with 3:14 to go. Southeastern took the lead back and held off the Seahawks down the stretch for a 71-65 victory.

Smith led the way with 20 points on 8-10 shooting from the floor, while Sarenac had 12 points and Umpierre with ten. Mattison grabbed a game high ten rebounds, and Danny Nieman had five assists off the bench.

Northwood will look to bounce back on Tuesday when they take on rival #2 Embry-Riddle at home. The game is set for 7:00 p.m.